FDA approves Uceris for ulcerative colitis

SAN DIEGO — The Food and Drug Administration has approved an ulcerative colitis drug made by Santarus, the drug maker said.

Santarus announced the approval of Uceris (budesonide) extended-release tablets for mild to active UC. The company plans to launch the drug in March.

"We are pleased to provide a new option for patients to treat the active phase of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis," Santarus president and CEO Gerald Proehl said. "With the incremental revenue from Uceris and continued growth in our marketed products, we anticipate another robust year of solid financial results for Santarus in 2013."

Proehl said the company expected the drug to have sales of $320 million to $325 million.